For its 21st edition, Virgin Labfest is going all the way with its theme, “Hubo’t Hubad.”

Hubo’t hubad’s literal translation is to be completely naked. When one is stripped down to their bare skin, they are fully presented and have nothing to hide. Similar to how this year’s 12 selected virgin plays are direct with their stories, quick to make sure their message is spread far and wide from the stage of the Tanghalang Ignacio Gomez (Cultural Center of the Philippines Black Box Theater).

This year, we can expect plays that don’t hold back. Actors, directors, and playwrights are dead set on giving their all to present their stories. No topic is too sacred to go untouched. From the brutal realities of the bloody war on drugs, to the messy and complicated relationships families may have, and to the burning questions that come with grappling with one’s sexuality. These are all familiar stories that some might relate to and know all too well, but with the added oomph of theater folk who know just how to leave lasting memories on their audiences.

Eight newbies and four returning playwrights will be participating in VLF XXI. These include Anthony Kim Vergara’s “Password123, Pilipinas 321,” Elijah Felice Rosales’ “Human Rights Story of the Year,” Floyd Scott Tiogangco’s “Patayin ang mga Surot (Kill the Parasites),” Neil Arkhe Azcuna’s “Balos (Payback),” Alab Usman’s “Haram,” Gab Mactal’s “Lualhati (Glory),” Dustin Celestino’s “Elehiya (Mournful Poem),” Ron Evangelista’s “She’s Electric,” Faith Ferrer Lacanlale’s “Betamax,” Jerom Canlas’ “Footprint,” John Lapus’ “Taksyapo,” and Gerald Manuel’s “Buhaghag (Frizzy).” Three previous plays, Ade Valenzona’s “Polar Coordinates,” Rolin Cadallo Obina’s “The Late Mr. Real,” and Siege Malvar’s “Presidential Suite #2,” are also set to make a return.

Aside from plays, VLF XXI also has stage readings, where stripped-down reading performances of some submitted scripts are held. There is also a writing workshop to be led by award-winning playwright Glenn Sevilla Mas. Taiwan International Play Reading Festival (TIPR) will also hold a special staged reading of Ihot Sinlay Cihek’s “How Romantic: A Guide to Modern Pangcah Life,” alongside the National Art Centre’s “Prison Dancer.” Other opportunities also include talks from international speakers and veteran playwrights.